More details on the potential cast for Paul Thomas Anderson’s forthcoming untitled Scientology drama are surfacing as it gears up for a shoot this summer. Last week we reported that Reese Witherspoon had been offered the role of the Master’s wife Mary-Sue, who acts as his caretaker and vigilant lieutenant. This week, the print edition of Production Weekly reveals that Amanda Seyfried, Emma Stone and Deborah Ann Woll are all being considered for the role of Elizabeth, The Master and Mary-Sue’s daughter.
We reviewed the script for the film that was floating around earlier this year and while the role of the daughter is a small one (though that could’ve changed), it also does have some pretty salacious bits (that we won’t spoil here) which will be an eye opener for any fans of the actress who lands the role.
So who will land it? It’s hard to say. Seyfried seems like least likely candidate only because she is set to shoot Catherine Hardwicke’s “Girl With The Riding Hood” this summer and depending on when Anderson’s film goes in front of cameras, scheduling alone could take her out of the running. Emma Stone has been looking to break out of comedic roles, most recently adding the period based, racial drama “The Help” to her upcoming slate. She would be an interesting fit for the role and it would definitely add something very different to her resumé. Finally, there’s Deborah Ann Woll, best known for her role as Jessica on “True Blood.” She doesn’t have much feature film experience (well, she has roles in three films that are awaiting release) but she’s capable, and from a purely financial aspect, probably the most budget friendly to join the $35 million dollar picture.
All this said, while the actresses are said to be “choices” for the role its unclear at this time if any offers have been made. Our guess would be they’ve all read or tested in some capacity but obviously, decisions are still pending. For now, the only confirmed cast members remain Philip Seymour Hoffman in the role of The Master and Jeremy Renner as Freddie Sutton, his troubled protegé. Frankly, those two could could go on screen and re-enact “Baby Geniuses” and we’d watch it, so whoever Anderson gets to surround them is icing on the cake.
Seyfried – a bit annoying lately I must say, too many bad movies, not the strongest actress, Big Love has kind of already covered the cult angle.
Emma Stone – has a dark aspect, hasn't really been seen in a dramatic light before. She's definitely my pick.
Deborah Ann Woll – I know this is unfair but who? In that case she'll probably get the role.
Having not read the script, I'll admit in advance some possible ignorance here. But Reese Witherspoon is 34 and she's going to play the mother of Seyfried (24), Woll (25) or Stone (21)? On what planet.
From a sheer biological standpoint then, I'll assume this role will go to Stone.
Deborah plays a virginal vampire on True Blood whose hymen grows back every time she has sex. She can do the "salacious."
Reese Witherspoon plays the second (third?) wife of The Master. Elizabeth, and the character of Val (who is probably even more important), are children from The Master's first marriage.
BTW, I agree with the poster above, I think this part is probably better suited for Emma Stone than the others.
I thought Renner passed on this film?
I like Seyfried. She did salacious with Chloe and has an angelic, innocent look that would suit a religious cult and accentuate the surprising parts.
But I do think the part would probably go to Stone or Woll. Stone looks like she could be Hoffman's daughter more than the others.
I think some people misunderstand what Kevin says about 'salacious'. I believe that Emma Stone doesn't want to do any nude scenes for any movies (like most of raising young actresses in Hollywood); she would not consider the role if it requires the actress to get naked.
Either way, I know from a source that this film won't start shooting till the end of the year at the earliest.
Any ideas on who actually wound up with the role?